it really existed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it really existed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when affirming the existence of something, often in a context where its reality might be questioned or doubted. Example: "Many people believe that the mythical creature was just a legend, but I assure you, it really existed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

I got to the extent of even questioning the existence of HIV/AIDS because I thought, if it really existed, why were some very promiscuous men escaping the infection.

Globalization and Health

If it really existed, how come no one else had mentioned it?

The Guardian

Only on one occasion in the wiretapped calls did a participant describe the situation as it really existed.

The New York Times

"It really existed on a spectrum, from overt sexual passes and comments to very dismissive or patronizing attitudes toward me because of my gender".

The New Yorker

I had read about this school in a guidebook, but since no other guidebook mentioned it, I wondered if it really existed.

The New York Times - Travel

They were scattered all over the city, these dust-baked cars, remnants of a civilisation so fantastic that it was hard to believe it really existed, that it wasn't just a dream.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The main reservations we have regarding this study and its results are inherent to the definition of VAT and whether it really exists, and are addressed above.

Critical Care

It really exists".

The New Yorker

But it really exists.

The Guardian

Could it really exist?

The New York Times

And does it really exist?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it really existed" to emphatically affirm the reality of something, especially when addressing skepticism or doubt. This phrasing can add weight to your statement, particularly in contexts where the existence might be questioned.

Common error

While "it really existed" is grammatically sound, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or nuanced language might be preferable. Consider alternatives that offer greater specificity or convey a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it really existed" serves as an affirmative statement, confirming the past existence of something. As Ludwig AI indicates, this expression is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples demonstrate its use in contexts where there might be doubt or questioning of the existence of something.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it really existed" is a grammatically correct phrase used to affirm the reality of something, often in response to skepticism or doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, though more formal settings might benefit from more precise language. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Science, indicating its role in asserting facts and countering misconceptions. Consider it a useful expression for reinforcing the truth, but always be mindful of the specific requirements of your writing context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it truly existed

Emphasizes the genuineness of the existence.

it actually existed

Highlights that something existed in reality, contrary to expectation.

it genuinely existed

Stresses the authentic nature of its existence.

it verifiably existed

Indicates that its existence can be confirmed with evidence.

it demonstrably existed

Suggests that the existence can be shown or proven.

its existence was real

Rephrases to emphasize that the existence was not imagined or fabricated.

it was indeed a reality

Affirms the reality of something, perhaps surprising or questioned.

its reality was confirmed

Indicates that initial doubts were dispelled and existence was established.

it was not a figment

Directly contrasts the idea that something was imaginary, asserting its real existence.

it had substance in reality

Focuses on the tangible or concrete nature of its existence.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it really existed"?

You can use alternatives like "it truly existed", "it actually existed", or "it genuinely existed" to emphasize the truth or reality of something.

When is it appropriate to use "it really existed"?

Use "it really existed" when you want to affirm the reality of something that may be doubted or questioned. It's suitable when you want to emphasize that something was not just a figment of imagination but a verifiable fact.

Is "it really existed" formal or informal?

The phrase "it really existed" is generally neutral. However, in very formal or academic contexts, you might prefer more precise or sophisticated language to convey the same meaning. Consider using "its existence was confirmed" or other more formal synonyms.

What is the difference between "it really existed" and "it existed"?

Adding "really" to "it existed" emphasizes the truth or genuineness of the existence. It's used to express stronger confirmation, often in response to doubt or skepticism. While "it existed" simply states that something was, "it really existed" asserts it more emphatically.